Tonight, I’m attending the Opera Ball 2013, The Garden of Good and Evil in San Francisco. The co-chair of the event is my good friend, Ann Girard and the renowned event planner is Colin Cowie. Yes, can you believe it? I feel like I’m going to the prom!
Not only had I not read up on the Opera details of Mephistopheles, but I needed time to get stylish and ready! This is my thought process for getting ready for the main event …
First, I rummaged through my closet looking for a dress to wear. Et voila I found a gown I had purchased months ago from Net-a-Porter, an online shopping store that I’ve mentioned in a previous blog.
Fashion tip: when you find an outfit, a pair of shoes or an accessory that you like but you don’t have any events to wear them to, buy it! You never know when a special occasion will arise. I don’t have a lot of outfits in my closet with sales tags still attached, but for special events I have a few. :)
As I tried on the long, black, body hugging gown from my closet I realized, yikes, I needed to tone up if I was going to rock the red carpet! My plan was to ratchet up my exercise regime and eat healthier. For a little help, I started to work out with a trainer at Crunch Gym. Unbeknownst to me he was a Master Trainer when he called to schedule sessions! Wow, he pushes me hard. I was so sore for the past three weeks. Thanks, Creig! I changed my diet by removing dairy and grains and started drinking loads of water. Although I didn’t lose any weight, I lost fat, tightened up and feel terrific. Yes, sirreeee Opera Ball…bring it on!
All of this just to shimmy into a ball gown? Yes, ladies and gentlemen, it takes A LOT of work to look and feel good for a special event. But all in all, it’s worth it. I’d be happy to help you look your best for an upcoming event – just ask!
Back to my ball gown…I brought it to my tailor who is an expert at Neiman Marcus who I also use with my wardrobe consulting clients. My gown had to be taken up in the hem (as they always do) and since it has a fairly lengthy train, my tailor added a little loop at the end of the train for me to put my finger through so that I can elegantly carry it while I gracefully walk up the steps at the War Memorial Opera House. I plan to wear black YSL shoes, long black silk gloves, and Spanx (can’t live without them!). I will have my hair donned in an updo by the sensational Stephen at Stephen Saiz Salon and I’ll apply long eyelashes and wear a smoky eye look designed by make-up artist, Annette. For the first time ever, I had a French manicure for my toes! It looks so elegant and clean and I’m sure I’ll make a point of doing it again.
My new tip, although in a long ball gown this is not needed, I use my Bobbie Brown tinted moisturizer not only on my face but also on my legs to give them a sheen, sleek and sexy look. I’m really jazzed about that new tip – try it! :) And last but not least, I will finish off my look with a few drops of my new favorite perfume by Creed. Then, I’ll be ready for my carriage to bring me to the Ball!
Stay tuned for next week as I'll post a photo of me (hopefully) with Colin Cowie!
